Multi-sensor networking with mobile communication using SICK’s TDC-E gateway system
Collecting, analyzing, storing, and transmitting data in mobile and stationary applications
MINNEAPOLIS, MINN., APRIL 8, 2019 - The TDC-E Telematic Data Collector is the newest addition to SICK's portfolio of gateway systems. The TDC gateway systems from SICK are used to collect, analyze, store, and transmit sensor data in mobile and stationary applications.
The mobile communication options have been extended with WLAN and WPAN, allowing for additional functionalities such as the indoor localization of mobile machines. The data collected, analyzed, and individually visualized by the TDC-E means that the operational status of the networked sensors, as well as the processes in which they are used, are completely transparent.
Optionally, SICK also offers customer-specific cloud solutions for further processing at a higher level. These solutions support the TDC-E with the MQTT, OPC UA, and JSON protocols via suitable interfaces such as GSM 3G+, WLAN, and Ethernet.
Data collector and concentrator for continuous process control in real time
As a physical device, the TDC-E acts as the connection point between controllers, sensors, and intelligent devices and the cloud. The new gateway system with SSI, RS-232, RS-485, RS-422, an analog output, digital I/Os, CAN bus, Ethernet, WLAN, and WPAN offers the most common interfaces used in industry for connecting sensors and sensor systems from SICK and other manufacturers.
Once real-time performance data has been collected (e.g., levels, drive temperatures, protective field infringements, reading rates, uptimes, or collisions), this information is summarized and analyzed in the TDC-E in order to minimize the data volume that is forwarded to external applications or to the cloud. The advantages are optimized response times and reduced network transmission costs.
Integrated data analysis for monitoring operation on-site and in the cloud
On the basis of pre-processed data, the TDC-E can carry out analyses which cause an alarm to be emitted via the switching outputs or an alarm message to be sent via SMS. These occur if preset sensor values are exceeded or if faults occur. The collected and processed data can also be used beyond machine and system operation on higher IT levels or in the cloud for intelligent services and applications.
These Smart Services ensure that the operational status of the sensors in the field, as well as the entire process, are as transparent as possible. The TDC-E generates both active and predictive information for prompt process optimization and system maintenance at a precise time.
More productivity and the greatest future assurance
The TDC-E accesses process and sensor data, which creates transparency and therefore enables significant increases in productivity thanks to processes being optimized. The TDC-E is also a cross-system data hub independent of manufacturers with its open interfaces, direct sensor connection, browser-based configuration with the SICK Engineering Tool SOPAS - without additional software and without license costs - as well as on-site or web-based data visualization. It ensures that machines, plants, and processes are fit for Industry 4.0 and the future.
TDC-E facilitates smooth system management and operational monitoring
The gateway system with mobile connection from SICK, and the new TDC-E in particular, are used as reliable, adaptable security and management tools for the sensor-supported management and monitoring of production lines, mobile machines, plants split over several locations, wind farms, and similar facilities.
Typical applications include tank and operational monitoring on ships and trucks, status logging and localization of swap bodies, remote control of systems containing large tanks and storage silos, remote system monitoring of natural gas transfer stations, operational monitoring as well as indoor and outdoor localization of vehicles, industrial trucks, and mobile machines. Further applications include recording events in crane systems, at level crossings, or in underground stations, as well as generally monitoring field instrumentation installed in a plant, including its integration into concepts for the purposes of preventative maintenance.
The TDC-E gateway system from SICK is used to collect, analyze, store, and transmit sensor data in mobile and stationary applications.
About SICK
SICK is one of the world's leading manufacturers of sensors, safety systems, machine vision, encoders and automatic identification products for industrial applications. With more than 1000 patents, SICK continues to lead the industry in new product innovations. The diversity of its product line allows SICK to offer solutions at every phase of production in the logistics, automotive, packaging, electronics, food and beverage, and material handling markets. SICK AG was founded in 1946 and has operations or representation in 65 countries worldwide.
http://www.sickusa.com
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